Friends embraced nontraditional family structures for all its main characters, celebrating the idea of a loving family beyond traditional monogamous heterosexual couplings. Ross became part of Carol and Susan's relationship as the father of Carol's baby, Phoebe acted as a surrogate for her brother's nontraditional family, while Rachel spent much of Seasons 8 through 10 exploring single parenthood. Friends' willingness to explore alternative forms of marriage and family made it ahead of its time and remains relevant today, making it inclusive and timeless.
